Carmel-by-the-Sea Restaurants - PortaBella

Savor Local, Fresh Cuisine in a Charming & Elegant Environment at Porta Bella

In Italian, "porta bella" means "beautiful door," and this restaurant's entry is certainly welcoming. But it's once inside that Porta Bella is truly impressive, starting with the décor. "The ambience here is Continental, reflecting the charm of Carmel, as if we were in a European town in the U.S.," says Bashar Sneeh, who owns the eatery. "Cottage style, warm colors, fireplace, stone, moss-covered rooftop. Sitting outdoor with a glass of Prosecco in the afternoon. To me, that's Carmel. And that's what Porta Bella is."

"Our guests are impressed by the beauty of our unique ambience and classic and delicious food choices," Sneeh says. He describes the menu as "Continental European with a touch of Mediterranean" with the Short Ribs with a port wine reduction being a highlight. Porta Bella is one of Carmel's most photographed places, he says. "It's an icon. The building pops up right away in visitors' eyes."

Bashar views the restaurant as an extension of his home and thinks of his customers as friends and family whom he's invited over for the evening to share a meal, a cocktail, a glass of wine and good conversation.

Open Sunday - Thursday 11:30am to 9:00pm
Friday and Saturday 11:30am to 10:00pm